Bill Shorten, has questioned reported plans to develop more than 2000 apartments and townhouses at the Moonee Valley racecourse

Assistant Treasurer and Member for Maribyrnong, Bill Shorten, has questioned reported plans to develop more than 2000 apartments and townhouses at the Moonee Valley racecourse.

“I’ve never been anti-development just for the sake of it, but this proposal to house 6,000 more people in a mere 40 hectares, including four towers more than 20 stories high, looks like over development and I have already received calls from concerned residents about the media reports.”

“This is primarily a planning issue for the MVCC and State Government, but I have to say I’m skeptical.”

“My concern is a large development like the one outlined will put undue extra stress on local transport, especially Mt Alexander Rd, Pascoe Vale Rd and Maribyrnong Rd. It could also have an adverse effect on local amenity and public transport infrastructure.”

“Moonee Valley Racecourse is an important local employer in my electorate and I acknowledge their future funding needs. However, any major development like the one proposed must balance the needs for more housing and local job creation with the concerns of the local community - especially transportation and environment concerns,” Mr Shorten said.

“I understand that MVRC is currently developing a draft master plan for their site, from which they will consult the local community. The Baillieu Government will have to live up to their election promises and let local communities have their say in developments such as this one.”

For media enquiries, please contact Shannon Walker – 0414 694 476
4 April 2011